The acquisition of the Black Volta and Sankofa gold projects by Engineers & Planners marks a transformative moment for the mining industry in Ghana’s Upper West Region. By taking over equity in Azumah Resources and Upwest Resources, the indigenous firm has successfully transitioned these long-stalled concessions into Ghanaian hands.
This move ends nearly twenty years of inactivity caused by financial constraints and legal hurdles, positioning a local company to lead development at a time when gold prices have surged past $3,000 per ounce.
To ensure a smooth transition into production, the company has established a clear strategy that begins with a comprehensive audit of historical debts in partnership with the Ghana Revenue Authority.
Once these obligations are verified and settled, the focus will shift immediately to the construction phase, utilizing secured funding to avoid the financing delays that typically hinder large-scale mining operations. This systematic approach is intended to restore investor confidence and ensure that the projects finally contribute to the national treasury and the government’s fiscal goals.
Beyond the corporate implications, this venture serves as a significant test of the ability of home-grown firms to manage world-class resource assets. While the local communities in Wa and surrounding areas are hopeful for new jobs and infrastructure, there is also a strong call from civil society for environmental transparency and fair community development.
If successful, the revival of the Black Volta and Sankofa projects could redefine the status quo, proving that domestic companies can provide the technical expertise and capital necessary to drive the nation’s economic recovery.